Santa Tecla Convent

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Legendary escape route

The convent of Santa Tecla is the only place of interest around Ma'loula. To get there, it is necessary to climb a steep path that goes behind the cliff. The convent is built around the shrine of St. Thecla, one of St. Paul's disciples regarded as one of the first martyrs in Christendom. Legend has it that she was persecuted and condemned because of her faith and when cornered against the face of the cliff, he prayed that God help him and then suddenly a crack opened in the wall, letting him escape. The convent is a rather ugly and modern building which in and of itself is not of much interest, except for the legendary escape route. This is an narrow opening through which filtered water flows which reminded me of Petra but in miniature. Throughout the gorge, there are graves have been exhumed, crevices, and several areas perfect for picnic or just a rest. The Monastery of St. Sergius is also nearby and in the same style. I think visiting this small town is justified because it helps to understand the diversity of attitudes and religions found in Syria. It helps you understand that, despite superficial differences, we all spring from the same roots.